How much does camping cost at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest?

Camping fees at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest are $35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest first-come first-served or reservation?

East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest before I book?

Yes! East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest?

East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest is open May 15 to October 02. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest?

East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest?

Fire policies at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest: Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest have?

East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest has 130 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest?

Yes, pets are allowed at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest?

East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest?

Popular activities at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)

4.60

336 reviews

INYO

Top 15% in CASummer

A-Report Card

Scenic ViewsGreat HikingFishing

Featured in:Fishing Camping

Quick Facts

8,900 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

130 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Recreation Resource Management Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

8,900 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

130 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Recreation Resource Management Official Website

Get Directions

East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)

$35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $35.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $35.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $35.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Provider

760-935-4825

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

INYO

East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)

INYO

Nearby places

Bishop (approximately 30 miles), Mammoth Lakes (approximately 30 miles)

Weather at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)

Current alerts(9)

Be bear aware; keep all food out of sight, in approved containers, or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from area after eating; always keep a clean camp and do not feed any wild animals
Changing campsites in this campground is prohibited
Click here for more information about the Inyo National Forest
Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.

Best Time to Camp at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)

Best season: summer. Summer delivers the most reliable alpine weather and full access to Rock Creek Canyon trails and trailheads: expect sunny days typically in the mid-50s to mid-70s°F (13–24°C) and chilly nights often dropping into the 30s–40s°F (1–8°C). This is peak season for hiking, mountain biking, high-country fishing and wildlife viewing when streams are fishable, meadows are green, and most services are operating — though creek flows are higher early in summer from snowmelt. Weekends and holiday periods can Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 10% in CA

Aspens turn gold; campground remains open into early October for fall color and crisp days.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to October 02. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open from May 16 to October 4 (reservable period). Out-of-season period: October 4 to May 15.

About East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)

East Fork Campground sits at high elevation in Rock Creek Canyon within Inyo National Forest, operated by Recreation Resource Management as a seasonal base camp for alpine recreation. The large campground offers flush toilets, potable water, and direct access to Sierra hiking and fishing. Reviewers praise the clean facilities and helpful hosts but note that some tent pads are uneven and RV access can be challenging on certain sites.

East Fork Campground caters to tent and RV campers, as well as those seeking group camping options. The campground's diverse site sizes and features aim to accommodate a variety of camping styles.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer delivers the most reliable alpine weather and full access to Rock Creek Canyon trails and trailheads: expect sunny days typically in the mid-50s to mid-70s°F (13–24°C) and chilly nights often dropping into the 30s–40s°F (1–8°C). This is peak season for hiking, mountain biking, high-country fishing and wildlife viewing when streams are fishable, meadows are green, and most services are operating — though creek flows are higher early in summer from snowmelt. Weekends and holiday periods can Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation8900 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryRock Creek tumbles through the campground, carrying snowmelt from the John Muir Wilderness. Jeffrey pines, white firs, and mountain hemlocks dominate the canyon floor, with aspens claiming the avalanche chutes and turning gold in autumn. Granite peaks rise above the tree line, their faces still marked by the glaciers that shaped this canyon. The elevation puts you in the transition zone between montane forest and true alpine terrain. Geology you can see in every boulder that's traveled from the heights above.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodges at the campground; however, Rock Creek Lodge nearby offers additional accommodations.

Programs & ActivitiesCultural or educational programs are not mentioned as available at the campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum Consecutive Stay: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not extensively documented, but several sites are described as narrow or uneven, which may challenge individuals with mobility issues.

Site SizeSite sizes vary significantly. Some are spacious enough for large tents and RVs, while others are described as narrow and only suitable for small tents.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Sites near the creek are less private but shaded, while others are more secluded due to natural barriers like trees and bushes.

Total Campsites130 campsites

Recommended SitesFor privacy and shade, sites along Rock Creek are recommended. Avoid sites with steep slopes or narrow parking spaces. Bring leveling blocks for RVs.

Best CampsitesSites near the creek get claimed early for their shade and water access. Reviews note these are less private but cooler. Some campers prefer sites farther back for more seclusion, though trees and bushes create natural barriers throughout the campground.

Need help booking East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

East Fork Campground offers a large and accommodating facility with four loops of campsites. The campground features a mix of sun and shade, with some sites located along the banks of Rock Creek. Firewood is available for purchase on-site for $8 per bundle. There are bear-proof food storage lockers available throughout the campground, and campers are strongly advised to use them due to frequent bear activity. Restrooms are equipped with flush toilets, and there are potable water spigots conveniently placed throughout the campground. Reviews highlight the cleanliness of the bathrooms and the frequent maintenance performed by the campground hosts.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)

The campground offers a range of outdoor activities including trout fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Rock Creek is a prime spot for fishing, and trails in the area lead to stunning alpine lakes, making it a popular choice for hikers and photographers.

Hiking5.0/5Top 3% in California

Fishing5.0/5Top 2% in California

Biking4.0/5Top 13% in California

Mountain biking is noted as popular with challenging trails in Rock Creek Canyon.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Area hosts black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, pine marten, pika and other alpine species.

Water Sports3.0/5

Winter Activities2.0/5

Area sees early snow and winter activity mentions, but campground is seasonally closed in winter.

Signature experiences

Photography4.5/5Aspens, granite peaks, clear creek and alpine lakes provide excellent photo subjects and compositions.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are available throughout the campground to securely store food and toiletries.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.6

336 reviews

Top-Rated

East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

East Fork Campground is highly regarded for its cleanliness, scenic location, and well-maintained facilities. However, opinions vary significantly based on campsite choice and personal preferences. Sites near the creek are highly sought after for their shade and proximity to water, while others are criticized for being uneven and lacking privacy.

Review Summaries

Based on 336 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 336 reviews.

Site 35Loved
Site 35 is praised for its shade and proximity to the creek.
Site 27Issues noted
Site 27 is criticized for its steep access to the tent pad and picnic area.

What Campers Love

The campground's cleanliness, beautiful setting, and friendly, accommodating hosts are frequently praised. Many users highlight the proximity to hiking trails and fishing opportunities as major...

Based on 336 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include uneven or sloped campsites, lack of shade, mosquito prevalence, and noise from neighboring campers. Some users express frustration with reservation policies and the...

Based on 336 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend arriving early for first-come, first-served sites near the creek, bringing mosquito repellent, and being prepared for cold nights. Campers also suggest checking site descriptions...

Based on 336 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground becomes very busy during peak summer months, with increased bear activity reported. Cold nights are common even in summer, and mosquito prevalence peaks in mid-July. Winter camping is...

Based on 336 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Bathrooms were very clean, and the camp hosts were friendly and helpful." "Make sure to bring mosquito repellent; they are fierce in mid-summer." "The creekside sites are gorgeous but book up...

Based on 336 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews indicate that certain sites may be difficult for individuals with mobility issues due to uneven terrain and narrow pathways.

Based on 336 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but must be leashed. One user reported an unpleasant experience with neighboring campers who did not leash their dogs.

Based on 336 reviews

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East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)

$35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $35.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $35.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $35.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

760-935-4825

Go if

You want a clean, staffed alpine campground with flush toilets and immediate access to Sierra hiking and fishing.

Skip if

You need level tent pads or guaranteed easy RV maneuvering on every site.

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Palisades Group Campground sits high in the Sierra along Rock Creek near Tom's Place, operated by Recreation Resource Management within Inyo National Forest. This small alpine site caters exclusively to groups seeking a private, well-shaded base for fishing, boating, and hiking in the high country. Flush toilets, potable water, and attentive hosts keep the experience comfortable despite the remote setting.

East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)

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About East Fork Campground – Inyo National Forest (Ca)

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Current alerts(9)

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